MEXICO — The Western Maine Beekeeper’s Association will have a Beekeeping School starting Wednesday, Jan. 20, at Region 9 School. Eleven weekly classes are scheduled from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. Wednesdays.

The sessions will be taught by area beekeepers and students will complete the series of classes just in time to set up their hives.

Class subjects will include setting up hives, acquiring honey bees, harvesting honey, disease prevention and hive management for each season. Students who set up hives will have the support of club members as they gain hands-on experience with the bees. Throughout the summer, club members may hold open hive meetings to demonstrate the application of the information that was presented in class.

There are different breeds of bees and local hobbyists urge new beekeepers to pick those that are known for their docile behavior. Proper handing of the honey bee colony will minimize the possibility of being stung and new keepers will be taught the proper techniques to use when working with their hives.

Registration will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, in the cafeteria at Region 9 School. The cost is $35 which includes the classes, books, handouts and a one-year membership in the Western Maine Beekeepers Association.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Beekeeping School or the club may contact Carol Cottrill at 364-0917 or WMBAmail@msn.com or Nick Kelley at 364-4121.

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